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On the 12th of February 2025, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Maritime Organization (IMO) launched the NextWave Seafarers Pilot project at the IMO headquarters in London. Signed on the sidelines of the IMO meeting of the Sub-Committee for Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping (HTW), the project is focused on training cadet seafarers from SIDS and LDCs, high level research and promoting international engagement on this important issue.
Signed into effect by Eng. Kamal Al-Junaidi, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to the IMO, and Dr. Jose Matheickal, Director of the Technical Cooperation Division, the project (which will be implemented between 2025 – 2026) focuses on capacity building support and is valued at approximately $700,000 USD. In providing positions onboard Saudi vessels to cadets from SIDs and LDCs, the NextWave Seafarers Pilot Project seeks to address the minimal representation of seafarers from these areas in the global shipping fleet. In its initial phase, the project will place 20 cadets (male and female) from SIDS and LDCs onboard between 2025 – 2026, enabling cadets to gain vital experience aboard and skills to commence a career in the industry.
By increasing the number of berths offered to cadet seafarers, it is hoped that the NextWave Seafarers Pilot Project will develop a cooperative framework for future engagement between IMO member states and shipping companies, which is intended to further encourage global participation in the project. In addition to this, the project will also conduct an international study into the barriers affecting access into the industry for cadets from SIDs and LDCs, including the difficulty in securing ship placements and obtaining required sea time.
To accompany the signing, Eng. Al-Junaidi, Dr. Matheickal, and Captain Yasser Hashem of Bahri presented the project's objectives and aims to IMO Member States. This presentation underscored the project's significance.
The NextWave Seafarers Pilot Project demonstrates the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s dedication to supporting seafarers, developing training opportunities and capacity building initiatives, while improving safety regulations and promoting further international collaboration. Through this project, the Kingdom aims to build cooperative pathways to provide more opportunities for cadets and help address the global crew shortage. It is also hoped that the NextWave Seafarers Pilot Project will serve as a catalyst to facilitate positive change in the shipping industry by analysing the barriers which seafarers from LDCs and SIDS must overcome. By investing in maritime training and strengthening international partnerships, Saudi Arabia is reaffirming its commitment to building a sustainable and resilient future for the shipping industry by supporting seafarers, enhancing global shipping standards, and ensuring the continued growth and resilience of the sector.
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